So you're looking for freelance writing jobs. A way to make some money on the side or possibly turn your writing skills into a full-time freelance gig.
But where do you start? Especially if you're a beginner taking your first steps towards a writing career.
Let's get right to it…
Freelance Writing Job Platforms
We'll start with a list of freelance platforms. Some are specific to writers, and others provide a wide range of opportunities beyond writing. In either case, they are all platforms to put your skills on display and earn some money.
Upwork
Upwork is your go-to if you're just dipping your toes into freelancing. It's a bustling marketplace where you can find a gig that fits you like a glove. I've been there, done that, and earned a couple of grand writing. In my opinion, it's worth a look.
Signing up is a breeze. Once you're in, you'll use “connects” to apply for jobs. Think of them as your golden tickets to new gigs. You get 60 free connects each month with the option of buying more at 15 cents a pop.
And like most platforms, Upwork takes a cut. Of course, they are also providing a significant service because finding clients on your own is an entirely different set of skills.
For the first $500 you make with a client, they'll snag 20%. After that, the fee drops. So, price your services accordingly. Upwork pays through PayPal.
To stand out, polish that profile till it shines. Clients check it out before they even think about hiring you. And remember, your ratings are your reputation. Do good work, get good ratings, and attract more clients. Simple as that.
Upwork's got its quirks, like those fees. But it's a solid platform to kickstart your freelance journey. And hey, you're not married to it. Feel free to play the field with other platforms too.
Fiverr
Fiverr is your playground for selling not just writing but any skill you've got up your sleeve. I've been there, and it's a blast.
Join for free and list your gigs, everything from writing to juggling flaming torches (if that's your thing). Set your own terms, like delivery time and requirements. And as you rack up sales and ratings, you level up, which means more moolah for you.
Fiverr takes a 20% cut, which is not uncommon for freelance marketplaces. Payments go through PayPal, making life a bit easier.
Fiverr's packed with seasoned pros, but don't let that scare you. There's room for everyone. Just put in the work, get those high ratings, and you'll build your own client base in no time.
iWriter
Next on our list of freelance writing platforms is iWriter.Sign up for free, but brace yourself for a test. Pass it, and you're in. Once inside, you pick your gigs. You start at the “Standard” rank, but as you churn out quality work, you climb the ranks, and your pay goes up.
Let's talk numbers. At the “Standard” rank, you're looking at around $2.50 for a 500-word article. The pay goes up as you level up. And the best part is that there are no fees. You get paid through PayPal, and the minimum threshold is $20.
Your rank is your ticket to better pay. So, pick clients with stellar reviews. They're the ones who'll give you high ratings, pushing you up the ranks faster.
People Per Hour
People Per Hour is your global marketplace for freelance gigs, from writing to web design. It's like the United Nations of freelancing.
Sign up for free and get to bidding. But don’t get too ambitious here. You can only bid on 15 jobs a month. I you want more, you'll have to pay up.
Here's the scoop on fees. For the first $700, they take a 20% cut. Earn more, and the fee drops. Payments roll in via PayPal and Payoneer.
The fees are steep at first but slide down as you earn more. So, aim for the big gigs. And remember, experience here can be your stepping stone to higher-paying gigs elsewhere.
Textbroker
Textbroker isn't new to the game. Founded in 2007, it's a haven for writers. Whether you're penning web content or press releases, this platform's got you covered.
Registering isn't a walk in the park. They'll ask for your life story, including your name, address, even a photo ID. But this keeps the fakes at bay. Once you're in, you'll submit a writing sample. Wait a week or two, and you'll get a rank. That rank is your ticket to better pay.
Pay is tied to your rank. Starting at 0.7 cents per word, you can climb up to a sweet 5 cents. The catch? You need a $10 minimum to cash out. Your payment options are direct deposit and PayPal.
Your writing sample is your golden ticket. Nail it, and you'll start at a higher rank with higher pay. Keep an eye on the job queue and negotiate rates with regular clients. It's a game, and you've got to play to win.
Constant Content
Having been around since 2006, Constant Content is a writer's paradise. From blog posts to press releases, the gigs are diverse. They are also global, with members that range from individual bloggers to big corporations.
Signing up is free but not a cakewalk. You'll fill out the usual, your name, email, and address. Then comes the test. Seven questions and a 250-word sample. Pass that, and you're in. Once you're approved, you can either pick topics from their catalog or respond to client requests.
Pay varies. The low end pays 1.5 to 2 cents per word. The high end is closer to 10 cents.
With that said, they have a 35% fee. So if you write a 500-word article and get paid 10 cents per word ($50), you come away with $32.50.
But it’s work, and when you’re starting out as a beginner freelance writer, it helps you build your portfolio and gain experience.
Payments are made through PayPal.
Quality over quantity. Their editorial team is strict. Too many errors, and you're out. So, make each word count.
Online Writing Jobs
Online Writing Jobs is like that strict teacher who knows you've got potential. Yeah, they'll make you jump through some hoops, but they also pay you $10 just to get your writing sample approved.
To start, it must be said that their website is dated. Archaic in internet years. So much so that when I first found Online Writing Jobs a few years ago, I wasn’t sure they were legit.
But they are.
Signing up is more than just a click. You'll need to fill out an application, submit a writing sample, and then… if you pass, you're in. But wait, there's more. You also need a W9 tax form, a valid ID, and proof of US residency. So, have your paperwork ready.
Once you're in, you have access to a handful of writing categories. You've got SEO Content, Copywriting, Bloggers and Influencers, and Subject Specific Experts. Pick what suits you and get to work.
Keep in mind that deadlines are set in stone, and they expire at 3 pm Eastern Time.
Now, let's talk money. You can earn between $10 and $27 per project. Payments roll in every Friday, either by check or PayPal. But here's the kicker… you've got to invoice them. There are no automatic payments, so keep tabs on that.
At the end of the day, Online Writing Jobs is a solid gig if you're cool with a bit of mystery (you won’t know who you’re writing for) and some extra paperwork. The pay's decent, and the project variety is a plus. But if you like to get cozy with clients, you might want to keep looking.
Writer Access
Writer Access is the platform that takes your freelance writing game to the next level. To get started, you'll need to create a free online portfolio that showcases your skills and experience. Once you're in, the platform connects you with a wide range of clients, from small businesses to Fortune 500 giants. Your application goes through a rigorous review, and if you make the cut, you're in. You'll start with a star rating between 3 and 6, which determines both your pay rate and the assignments you can claim.
The pay structure here is pretty straightforward. Your earnings are tied to your star level, and most newbies start at level three. In the Basic Marketplace, you're paid by the word, with rates ranging from 2 to 10 cents. If you're in the Pro Marketplace, expect higher rates starting at 11 cents per word, flat fees, or even hourly rates. You'll pocket 70% of what the client pays, while Writer Access takes a 30% cut for operational costs.
When it comes to client interactions, Writer Access has some nifty features. Clients can use AI-powered Writer Search to find you based on your skills and expertise. They can also host casting calls to find the right talent. All communication has to stay on the platform, and clients rate your work as either “Exceeded Expectations,” “Met Expectations,” or “Did Not Meet Expectations.”
What sets Writer Access apart is its proprietary tools and software integrations that make scaling content marketing a breeze. They offer AI-powered tools like the AI Content Idea Generator and AI Writer Matching to make the content creation process more efficient. Plus, they're transparent about their rates, so you know exactly what you're getting into.
So, Writer Access is a solid choice if you're looking for a platform that offers more than just a marketplace. It's a place where you can grow, earn well, and work with a diverse range of clients. But remember, you'll need to keep all communication on their platform and be prepared for their 30% cut.
Flexjobs
Flexjobs is a different beast. It’s a job board with far more opportunities posted than writing. But it’s not free.
With that said, your membership comes with a significant benefit. Flexjobs vet every job posting, so the risk of scams is low.
Membership costs vary. You have a few options.
- $14.95 for a month,
- $29.95 for a quarter,
- $49.95 for a year.
The yearly plan is your best bet at about $4 a month, and paid memberships come with advanced search options, free skills testing, and email alerts for new gigs.
Look, I get it. Starting out, you're counting every penny. But if you can afford it, Flexjobs offers quality leads. If you've got the budget, it's worth a shot. And there is a 30-day refund policy.
Craigslist
Craigslist is old-school, founded in 1995. It's like the classifieds section of a newspaper but online. Jobs, gigs, services… you name it. They've got it. But hold on, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. I've been scammed there. And they've got an F rating from the BBB. Still, it's an option worth considering.
No sign-ups, no fees, no fuss. Just search by category and location. See a gig you like? Hit reply and shoot an email. It's that simple, and you can take the conversation off Craigslist whenever you want.
It's a mixed bag. Yes, you can find legit gigs. But you've got to tread carefully. Scams are more common here. Still, if you're like me, you'll want to explore every avenue. Just keep your wits about you.
FreedomWithWriting
Freedom With Writing is like that secret weapon you didn't know you needed. It's an e-magazine and a job board rolled into one. They have been around since 2010, so they're no new kid on the block.
Drop your email, and you're in. What you get are emails packed with job reviews, career-building ebooks, and articles. All for the price of zero dollars.
Media Bistro
Media Bistro is an artsy hub where writers congregate. It's user-friendly with ample resources… a writer's paradise of sorts.
Registering is easy. Hit “Register” and start browsing. Go basic with Job Search or upgrade to the Membership Portal. Either way, you’re set up to find gigs.
Now, let's discuss money. Stick with the free version or go premium if you want to network with big players like CNN, NBC, and Bloomberg. Monthly memberships are $14.99 or save a third annually. They accept all major cards.
Media Bistro is somewhat unique in that it has an in-house content studio (Uncubed Studios). They also have expert-led courses and career services making this a full career hub, not just a job board.
Their blog is a goldmine for beginners with tips, tricks, and industry news. If you're serious about freelance writing, Media Bistro is definitely one you want to check out.
Freelance Writing Jobs
Freelance Writing Jobs is a no-frills job board focused entirely on writing gigs. It's straightforward with easy navigation.
It works like any job board. Clients post, and you browse. Then apply to anything appealing. You communicate directly with clients for payment and details.
The best part, though, is that it's free. No fees or commissions. You keep all earnings from gigs. It's a treasure hunt where you get to keep the bag.
It’s unique among many writer’s platforms, covering copywriting, content writing, and technical writing. Listings are refreshed on weekdays, so there's always something new.
The volume of listings may be less than other sites, but the time savings is invaluable. And, of course, you’re not bound by one platform. Freelance Writing Jobs is just another resource to add to your list.
As a writer looking for freelance gigs, Freelance Writing Jobs is your daily pit stop.
Freelance Writer's Den
Freelance Writer's Den is an exclusive writing community and sanctuary. Not just a job board.
The navigation is simple, with a monthly fee. For $25, unlock resources like forums, webinars, courses, and listings. A 30-day money-back guarantee is offered.
It's run by Carol Tice, a veteran freelance writer of 20+ years. And she leads a team of pro moderators.
The community is what sets Freelance Writer’s Den apart. You're a part of a supportive tribe, not just scrolling through listings. They have your back, answer questions, and even offer webinars to improve your skills.
According to members, some have gone from making freelancer peanuts to six figures here. We can’t verify that of course, but if you want to turn writing into a career, this is a worthy launchpad.
Problogger Job Board
Problogger is the OG platform for bloggers and writers. The seasoned veteran is still going strong.
Create a profile, upload a resume, and start browsing. Employers do the same for a two-way street. Find them, and let them find you.
Employers pay to post listings, but it's free for job seekers. So, hunt for gigs without paying.
Longevity makes this board special. Running since 2006, it has advertised almost 10,000 jobs. That's a lot of gigs and trust.
If you're looking for a proven platform (which of course you are), the Problogger Job Board is for you.
SolidGigs
SolidGigs is your freelance gig matchmaker, like a personal assistant finding perfect opportunities.
Sign up and share your preferences. Relevant gigs roll directly into your inbox. No more sifting through listings. SolidGigs does the work.
Try it for 30 days with a $2 trial. Then it's $21 monthly or $19 monthly if you commit for a year.
You get a personalized weekly gig list and a rating system to identify quality clients. It's like having your own gig-hunting assistant.
Also great for beginners, with daily email alerts tailored to you. It delivers a steady stream of opportunities right to your inbox.
If you want to eliminate the grunt work of hunting gigs, SolidGigs has you covered.
We Work Remotely
We Work Remotely is the hip co-working space for remote gigs. A mecca with something for all, including writers.
Easy navigation lets you browse by category, keyword, or location. Sign up for email alerts to get the freshest gigs. It's free for job hunters, while employers pay to post. Just dive in and start browsing.
And it’s not small-time. Apparently, it's the world's largest remote job platform, although I think sites like Flexjobs and Upwork might challenge that. But maybe they are the biggest. At the very least, they’re one of the biggest, and having begun in 2013, they have solid credibility.
Working Nomads
Working Nomads is the global bazaar for remote work, with hidden gems for writers too.
Browse by category, location, or job type. Sign up for email alerts to get the latest gigs in your inbox. Simply click to apply and follow the employer's instructions. It's 100% free for job seekers, with employers paying the fees.
Diversity makes this platform unique. It's for any remote worker, including writers. Content writing, copywriting, technical writing… it's all there.
If you're a writer with wanderlust who wants to work anywhere, Working Nomads can make it happen.
Behance Creative Jobs
Behance Creative Jobs is the art gallery of writing, where every piece is a masterpiece.
Go to Behance, click “Jobs,” and start browsing by location, type, or field of expertise. Simply click and follow the instructions to apply.
It's completely free for both seekers and employers. No hidden fees or tricks.
This is a creative space by creatives for creatives. From calligraphy to comics, it celebrates all art forms and provides community.
If you're a creative writer looking to break into the industry, Behance Creative Jobs is an artistic oasis.
Verblio
Verblio is like that laid-back coffee shop where you can pick your favorite corner and settle in with your laptop. It's user-friendly and offers a smorgasbord of topics and content types. Whether you're into blog posts, newsletters, or ebooks, Verblio has you covered. The platform lets you work at your own pace, making it a flexible gig for freelancers.
Getting started requires a bit of legwork. You'll need to pass a grammar test, complete a plagiarism training module, and submit a writing sample. Once you're approved, you can pick and choose from a variety of writing jobs.
The more you write, the more points you earn, unlocking higher-paying gigs with more words. And when your content gets sold, Verblio makes sure you get paid. Payments are a weekly affair, straight to your PayPal.
When it comes to payment, Verblio keeps it simple with a flat fee structure. You start at $11.50 for a 300-word article. As you climb the levels, the pay gets better. Reach Level 6, and you're looking at $57 for a 1,000-word piece.
What sets Verblio apart is its unique approach to freelance writing. You're not stuck in a single niche. You can explore a wide range of topics and content types. Plus, they have a leveling system that lets you unlock higher-paying opportunities as you rack up points. The platform also prides itself on creating a positive and supportive environment for writers.
In a nutshell, Verblio offers a flexible, user-friendly platform with a variety of writing opportunities. It's a good fit for freelancers who like to diversify their portfolios and are keen on climbing the pay ladder. But keep in mind, that you'll need to pass some initial tests to get in the door.
⚠️Platforms You May Want to Avoid
While there are many great platforms and freelance marketplaces to find writing gigs, and some that are not. Included this section to just highlight some just in case you run into them.
They may appear as good places to find remote positions and writing jobs, but rather than helpful resources to gain writing experience and further your freelance career… they're mostly just looking for your money.
Write App Reviews
This program claims to hire you to write app reviews, but that's not what it is. There is some basic information that shows you how to make money writing reviews, but it's not a job, and Write App Reviews does not pay you.
Instead, you are only writing reviews with the hope that someone reads them and purchases the app through your affiliate link. This is a legitimate way to earn money as a writer, but it doesn't work the way Write App Reviews claims.
Texting Factory
Texting Factory is often advertised as a place to earn money writing texts. And, while that's true, you are writing very specific texts. Adult texts.
This platform pays you roughly $11 – $12 per hour to flirt with men, although some reviewers claim it's closer to $6 per hour.
It's a legitimate platform and pays you for writing. It just might not be the type of freelance writing you were thinking of. With that said, people are earning money with it.
AOJ Online Jobs
AOJ (American Online Jobs), upon first glance, it appears like a legitimate freelance marketplace to find jobs. But you won't find what you're looking for on this platform.
When you join, you'll only find videos showing you how to promote online surveys and rewards sites.
So, these are a few platforms you may want to avoid if you run into them in your search.
Freelance Writing Jobs on Social Media Platforms
Social media isn't just for selfies and memes. It's a treasure trove of freelance writing opportunities. This section will guide you in navigating this digital landscape as a beginner freelance writer.
When finding work on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, etc., they are often seen as a place for experts. For everyone, social media is just for fun. But don't let that deter you. As a beginner, you can still carve out your space and find freelance writing job opportunities.
Start small, aim big. You're not just another content creator. You're a brand in the making. Use platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to showcase your writing projects and skills.
LinkedIn is more than a digital resume. It's a freelance writing job board waiting to be explored. Create a profile that highlights your skills and experience levels. Use the search function to find job opportunities. Optimize your profile to attract freelance clients.
Facebook isn't just for sharing vacation photos. It's a hub for freelance writer jobs. Here are some tips…
- Groups and Communities – Join freelance writing and content creator groups.
- Networking – Use your existing connections to find writing projects.
Reddit is an underrated platform for finding remote writing jobs. Navigate through subreddits related to freelance writing and engage in meaningful conversations. Just remember, no spamming.
Whichever platform you choose (not that you only need to choose one), you can approach potential clients with bigger budgets once you've built a portfolio and gained some experience. Working directly with clients simplifies the process and often results in higher earnings.
Start building your social media writer persona now. It's a long-term investment. The connections you make today could be your job opportunities tomorrow.
The freelance writing platform you build today on social media will be your goldmine tomorrow. It's all about laying the groundwork for a successful freelance writing career.
Guest Blogging Outreach for Your Freelance Writing Business
Guest blogging isn't just a buzzword. It's a strategic move that can catapult your freelance writing business into the limelight.
In fact, guest posts are more than just articles on someone else's blog. They're a form of social proof that can beef up your portfolio for online freelance writing jobs.
Why Bloggers and Website Owners Need Freelance Writers
Bloggers and website owners are in a constant battle for search engine attention. Fresh, optimized content is their weapon of choice.
You've probably heard the saying… “content is king.” That's definitely true in the search engine optimization (SEO) world.
And that's where SEO writing comes into play. And where you, the skilled content writer, become invaluable.
So, don't limit your search for online writing jobs to traditional job boards. Guest blogging opens doors to ideal clients who value quality over quantity.
Pitching Your Writing Services
First impressions matter. Your submission guidelines should be more than a list. They should tell a story. And don't underestimate the power of a well-crafted author bio and byline.
Quality matters. As a content writer with a gift for storytelling, your guest posts should be more than just readable. They should be memorable. Content marketing strategies can amplify the reach of your guest posts.
Following Up to Build Your Freelance Career
You've got the gig, now what? Use your email list of clients to keep the conversation going. Follow up with satisfied clients and ask for introductions or referrals to prospective clients.
And you can always do more work. A well-timed follow-up can turn a one-off gig into a long-term relationship.
Success isn't just about the byline. Look for social proof, track calls for submissions, and monitor how each guest post impacts your freelance writing business.
There are plenty of additional resources, such as tools and platforms, that can make your guest blogging outreach more effective. From SEO tools to email marketing platforms, the right resources can make all the difference.
Guest blogging isn't just a tactic. It can be spammy if done incorrectly, but doing it the right way has created many successful freelance writers. It's a long-term strategy that can set the stage for a successful career in freelance writing.
Beginner Freelance Writer Common Questions
What are some other ways for beginners to find freelance writing jobs?
There are several ways for beginners to find freelance writing jobs, including those listed in this article, such as job boards and writing sites.
Other ways to find freelance writing gigs include reaching out to local businesses, schools, and organizations if you have technical expertise in a specific area. You can write content for their websites (or rewrite content). You can also check locally for community magazines and newsletters to do research and writing for.
How can I get paid as a beginner freelance writer?
As a beginner freelance writer, you can get paid by writing articles and creating content for blogs, news websites, etc. However, you can also take up writing gigs online that pay affiliate commissions, advertising revenue, and payment for generating leads.
This method of getting paid to write is a departure from the various platforms and websites listed above that offer opportunities. And they also require you to build an audience. The upside is that you get paid for your writing repeatedly rather than just once.
How do I start freelance writing?
To start freelance writing, you must have some writing skills. You don't need to be a literary master or an accomplished author, but it helps to know how to structure an article outline, conduct effective research, and put your ideas down in a logical way.
There are tools and resources that can help you with grammar, like Grammarly and ProWriting Aid. And, AI can also help you craft your first draft, so getting started as a freelance writer has never been easier.
From there, it is just a matter of creating a writing portfolio and samples of your work. You can then search for freelance writing jobs on different platforms and start applying for them.
Are there any online writing opportunities for beginners?
Yes, there are online writing opportunities for beginners, many included above in this article. It's daunting as a beginner, I know. However, many websites and platforms provide opportunities specifically for beginner freelance writers.
As mentioned in previous sections above, you can find these opportunities on job boards, freelance writing sites, and writing job marketplaces.
Can I work from home as a freelance writer?
Yes, one of the best things about being a freelance writer is that you can work from the comfort of your own home. Freelance writing allows you to have a flexible work schedule and work from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection.
How can I become a successful freelance writer?
To become a successful freelance writer, it is important to consistently improve your writing skills, network with other writers, and market yourself effectively. Good writing is like everything else, it requires practice.
To be successful at writing requires you to write. That's the most important piece to the puzzle. And then, building a strong writing portfolio and delivering high-quality work to clients is also crucial for success as a freelance writer.
Where Do You Go From Here?
You want a writing job to make money and become a successful freelancer. And you're not alone.
Fortunately, this is a well-worn path, and there are many platforms and resources that will help you along your journey. You can also check out our guide for aspiring writers.
Don't hesitate to leave a question below or share your experiences as a writer, your recommended platforms, or anything you'd like to add to the freelance writing community.
Dear Angela,
Thank you so much for the 'blog' about freelance writing. I have been writing a book now for years. Since my mothers death on Father's Day of 2000. However, due to a lot of lemons life has thrown at me, up until reading your blog I had basically stopped actively writing. It is mostly an autobiography of my life. Although it is about my life and every woman I've met and even about stories that my grandmother told me that I just had to put into the book. The name of the book is called Her Pain and despite the name there is joy, happiness, love, sex… real life…and it happens as fast as it comes. For all and it's also, I should say somewhat my spiritual journey. So again I say thank you.
-Cassius
Awesome list and great info. Just what I need! Thank you so much.
I have a friend who is so much interested in guest posting and this post will really go a long way for her so i will be sharing it with her…